REACH Updates: What They Mean for the Chemical Industry in 2025

REACH Updates: What They Mean for the Chemical Industry in 2025

The European Union’s REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals) regulation is one of the most influential pieces of legislation governing the chemical industry. Designed to ensure the protection of human health and the environment from the risks posed by chemicals, REACH has undergone continuous updates since its introduction in 2007. As we move into 2025, new developments are reshaping how businesses comply with the regulation and manage chemicals across Europe.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the most significant REACH updates and what they mean for chemical manufacturers, importers, and users. From new chemical substance requirements to changes in compliance deadlines, staying informed about these updates is essential to ensure continued compliance and minimise risks.

1. New Substances Added to the REACH Candidate List

In recent months, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has updated its candidate list of substances of very high concern (SVHCs). These are chemicals identified as having properties that may cause serious and irreversible effects on human health or the environment. The list now includes several new substances that could affect many companies operating in the chemical, automotive, electronics, and consumer goods industries.

For companies manufacturing or importing products containing these substances, it’s essential to assess their exposure to SVHCs and determine whether they need to provide notifications to ECHA or update their safety data sheets (SDS). With the potential for more substances to be added to the list throughout the year, companies must stay vigilant and adapt their supply chains accordingly.

2. Tightening of Restrictions on Persistent, Bioaccumulative, and Toxic (PBT) Substances

The European Union is intensifying its focus on Persistent, Bioaccumulative, and Toxic (PBT) substances under REACH. These chemicals are of particular concern because they don’t break down easily in the environment, can accumulate in the food chain, and may pose long-term risks to both ecosystems and human health.

3. Enhanced Communication Obligations Across the Supply Chain

One of the key objectives of REACH is to ensure that information about chemicals is communicated effectively throughout the supply chain. Article 33 of REACH requires companies to inform their customers if a product contains more than 0.1% of any substance listed in the SVHC candidate list.

In 2025, there will be increased emphasis on communication obligations. Businesses will need to ensure they maintain accurate records of chemical composition and provide timely and transparent information to customers. For example, if a supplier updates their safety data sheet or if a new substance is added to the SVHC list, companies must pass this information down the supply chain promptly.

4. Stricter Enforcement and Penalties

REACH enforcement is becoming more stringent, with national authorities taking a more proactive approach to ensure that companies are complying with the regulation. In 2025, we are likely to see more inspections, audits, and penalties for non-compliance.

5. The Rise of Sustainability and “Green” Chemistry

The European Union is increasingly integrating sustainability goals into its regulatory framework, and REACH is no exception. In recent updates, the ECHA has begun encouraging the adoption of "green chemistry" principles, which focus on the design of chemicals and processes that reduce or eliminate the use of hazardous substances and minimise environmental impact.

6. REACH and Brexit: Implications for UK Businesses

Although the UK is no longer a member of the European Union, REACH still applies in Great Britain (England, Scotland, and Wales) in a modified form. Following Brexit, the UK has established its own version of REACH, known as UK REACH, which mirrors the EU regulation but is managed separately by the UK Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

UK companies involved in the chemical sector need to ensure they are up to date on both EU REACH and UK REACH regulations to avoid disruptions in trade or sales.
 

The landscape of chemical regulation in Europe is continually evolving, and 2025 is shaping up to be another pivotal year for REACH updates. From new substances added to the candidate list to stricter enforcement and registration deadlines, it’s crucial for companies in the chemical industry to stay on top of regulatory changes.

At Pearl Chemicals, we are committed to ensuring full compliance with REACH and other industry regulations. As always, we encourage businesses to be proactive, stay informed, and work closely with industry bodies and regulatory agencies to navigate these changes smoothly.